Shiitake Mushrooms (Lentinula edodes)

Shiitake Mushrooms are fleshy, brown-colored mushrooms that are known for their
medicinal properties. Ideal temperature for the growth of shiitake mushrooms is considered to
be 18-24OC. Shiitake mushrooms are believed to be originated in East Asia, particularly in the
regions comprising of Japan, Korea and China. These mushrooms are known for both their edible as well as medicinal properties. Shiitake mushrooms are considered to be a good remedy
for premature ageing and respiratory problems. The Japanese cultivates shiitake mushrooms on
the wooden logs of shii trees. These mushrooms can be consumed both as fresh and dried
forms. Dried shiitakes can be rehydrated by soaking them in water for a few minutes. Sun dried
shiitake mushrooms are in more demand as drying process breaks down proteins into amino
acids and converts ergosterol present in them to vitamin D. Nutritional value of 100 grams of
raw Shiitake mushrooms is given below:
Proximates
Water (g) 89.74
Energy(kcal) 34
Protein(g) 2.24
Total lipid (fat) (g) 0.49
Carbohydrate, by difference(g) 6.79
Fiber, total dietary(g) 2.5
Sugars, total(g) 2.38
Minerals
Calcium, Ca (mg) 2
Iron, Fe(mg) 0.41
Magnesium, Mg(mg) 20
Phosphorus, P(mg) 112
Potassium, K(mg) 304
Sodium, Na(mg) 9
Zinc, Zn(mg) 1.03
Vitamins
Thiamin(mg) 0.015
Riboflavin(mg) 0.217
Niacin(mg) 3.877 Vitamin B-6(mg) 0.293
Vitamin D (D2 + D3) ยต g 0.4
Vitamin D(IU) 18
Ergosterol = 85 mg/100 g. Source: USDA Nutrient Database